The Biz Foundry is thrilled to announce the Top 6 Finalists for this year’s Start Here Pitch Competition, happening Wednesday, November 19 at 37 Cedar in Cookeville, TN!

These incredible startups stood out for their bold ideas, scalable business models, and connection to the Upper Cumberland region. Each one is ready to make big waves — and they’ll compete live for cash prizes of $10,000, $5,000, and $2,500, plus the chance to pitch to the Upper Cumberland Angel Investors Fund.

Congratulations to our 2025 Finalists:

1. Tee Williams of Better Butter Cookie Company

2. Kent Simpkins of AETIVA Sweetener, Inc

3. Thomas Robertson of Digithreads

4. Cindy Malawey of Rebabit Health

5. Mike Taylor of Volunteer Bulk Transfer

6. Jay Lefkovitz of ElevateTrak

📅 Event Details
Date: Wednesday, November 19, 2025
Time: Doors open 5:30 p.m. | Competition begins 6 p.m.
Location: 37 Cedar, Cookeville, TN
More Info & Tickets: Register Here